We’re sure you’ve heard the phrase it’s all about “location, location, location”. When it comes to finding the right office space location is an important factor along with other aspects that you should keep in mind. Finding and refurbishing an office space so that it’s right for you may seem daunting but with our guide you can break down the process which will enable you to make the right decisions when it comes to your new office space and refurbishment options.
The Location
If you’re looking for a new office the first step is to identify the best location for your business. Look at your requirements and identify the best areas that would provide the most viable office location. Your decision should be based on a number of factors including:
- What image do you want to portray?
- The type of business you have: do you require foot traffic or need customers to come to your site or do you do business “remotely”?
- Is it in an area that people will want (and be able to travel to) if required?
- Consider who your clients are and how easy it will be for them to get to you.
- Will you be able to attract (and keep) staff?
- Do your suppliers have easy access?
- Does it have easy access to public transport?
- Is it close to competitors? Your competitors will have chosen their location based on their ideal customers so you could cash in on the work they have already done.
- Is there adequate parking for staff, customers and delivery vans?
- Are there amenities nearby e.g. restaurants, shops etc.
The Building
Once you’ve identified the right location the next step is in identifying the right building to meet your business needs. It’s vital that the building you choose is right for your business. So what should you be looking for in a building? Here are some of the factors that should be important to you:
- How old is the building?
- Is it in good condition (inside and outside) or does it need repairs?
- Are there any works scheduled to be carried out?
- Does the building have good disabled access?
- Are the lease terms and rent reasonable?
- What are the business rates?
- Would you be proud to bring your clients to the office and will your staff be proud to work there?
When it comes to what type of buildings to consider it’s worth reading our article on warehouse conversions. As the article states “Businesses appear to be favouring industrial units and disused buildings” for their space to grow, storage facilities, ample parking and easy access from major road routes and the space can be used in a multitude of variations – from large open plan offices to divided spaces for the rental market.
The Office Space
Now you’ve identified the building consider the office space. Your new office space needs to accommodate you and your staff, preferably allowing for future expansion. At this point you should be thinking about how the office space and layout would work and if it would be conducive to the health and wellbeing of your staff enabling them to give their best and boost the productivity of your business. See our article on office refurbishment and health and wellbeing.
Some questions to consider:
- Is the available space large enough to meet your current needs?
- Will it meet your layout requirements? Think about offices, meeting rooms, reception, break out areas, kitchen, tea points, storage etc.
- Is there an abundance of natural light available?
- Will it allow for expansion if required?
- Do the existing utilities meet your needs?
- Are the IT services adequate/reliable?
The Refurbishment
If you think you’ve found the right location and the right building but aren’t happy with the office layout, furnishings or décor this shouldn’t stop you from moving forward. An office refurbishment will allow you to shape the office space to exactly your requirements enabling you to set out your vision in terms of how the office is refurbished. Bear in mind you may require planning permission from the council or permission from your landlord before proceeding with any changes to the office workspace.
The Budget
You need to consider your office refurbishment budget carefully and set a realistic budget. However you should also be aware that office refurbishments can be financed. JBH Refurbishments work in partnership with Plus Finance Ltd to offer funding plans including: lease rental and lease purchase. For more information read our finance and leasing article.
When looking at how much you need to budget or how much finance you require remember to factor in planning permission, insurance, design and fit out, fire plan assessments, IT and telecom, furniture, waste and contingency costs.
The Plan, Layout and Design of Your Space
The planning, layout and design of your office space layout (including offices, desks, meeting rooms, break out areas, kitchens, IT and telecoms etc.) can be done using digital rendering. A digital rendering will a show you how your completed office will look and will give you the confidence that your requirements will be fully met.
There are a number of things to consider when carrying out an office design and refurbishment.
You should keep in mind the following:
- What sort of rooms/spaces do you need?
- How many people/workstations/desks do you need to accommodate?
- Where should IT/telecoms be placed?
- Consider windows/lighting placement.
- Establish where air conditioning, heating and ventilation will be.
- Think about décor. Colour is important as is the use of natural materials, art work for your walls and “bringing the outside inside”.
Apart from the standard considerations above it’s also worth reading our articles on rethinking your office design for some ideas and eco-friendly office design.
Contact us to find out about our office relocation support package which includes help from the early stages of your office relocation to providing advice on the most suitable office refurbishment layout for your business needs. We will take into account your current workforce and the future growth of your business to ensure your workspace works for today and into the future.
Call us on 0333 207 0339 or contact us via our contact form. We look forward to working with you.
